Let’s get to the point, Yes, you can raise a house built on a concrete slab. It’s done more than folks think, especially in flood-prone areas or when the foundation starts giving up. But it’s a big job, and it takes the right crew, equipment, and a plan that doesn’t leave anything to chance.
At Du-West Services, we’ve lifted slab-on-grade homes across Texas—some to prevent future damage, others to repair foundations that already took a hit. If you’re wondering whether your house can be raised and what it takes, let’s walk through it. There will be no sugar coating, no runaround, just straight-up answers.
What Is a Slab Foundation?
A concrete slab is a single, solid piece of poured concrete that forms the base of the house. There is no crawlspace or basement. The house sits directly on the slab, and everything—plumbing, HVAC, framing—starts from there.
Most homes in Texas have this kind of foundation. It’s fast to build, holds up well in flat areas, and keeps pests out. But when soil shifts or water pushes in, slab homes can crack, sink, or flood.
That’s when raising the house becomes an option.
Why Raise a House on a Slab?
People lift slab houses for a few reasons:
- To prevent flooding — especially in areas hit by repeat storms
- To repair or replace a damaged foundation
- To switch to a pier-and-beam system for better access and support
- To meet new building codes or insurance requirements
- To add clearance for plumbing, HVAC, or additions
It’s a big step, but it beats rebuilding or living with a foundation that keeps getting worse.
How We Raise a House on a Slab
It’s not just jacking up a few beams. This job requires engineering, timing, and the kind of patience you don’t get from a weekend handyman.
Here’s our step-by-step process:
1. Initial Inspection and Planning
We visit the site and inspect the current slab, soil, and structural layout. We check for damage, slope, drainage issues, and how utilities are connected. Then we build a lift plan around your house — not a one-size-fits-all guess.
2. Permitting and Coordination
We obtain the necessary permits, contact utility companies, and ensure the plan meets city codes. We also handle the paperwork if your house is in a flood zone or part of a FEMA project.
3. Utility Disconnections
Before the lift, we disconnect water, gas, electric, HVAC, and plumbing lines. Anything anchored to the ground or slab needs to be unhooked or protected.
4. Set Up Support Beams and Jacks
We cut access points through the slab if needed, then slide heavy-duty steel beams underneath. These get connected to synchronized hydraulic jacks positioned around the perimeter.
5. The Lift
The house (slab and all) gets raised slowly and evenly. We take it inch by inch, checking levels constantly to prevent stress on the structure.
6. Install New Foundation or Piers
Once the house is high enough, we build a new support system beneath it. Depending on the soil and design, this could be concrete piers, concrete blocks, or steel piles.
7. Lower, Secure, and Reconnect
We lower the house onto the new foundation, secure it in place, reconnect utilities, and make sure everything runs smoothly.
8. Final Inspection and Cleanup
We patch access holes, finish grading around the home, and walk it with you to ensure the job’s done right.
When to Call Us for Help
Raising a slab house isn’t something to experiment with. If you see the following, it’s time to talk to us:
- Your home has flooded more than once
- You’ve got cracks running across floors or walls
- Doors and windows don’t open or close like they used to
- Water is pooling around the foundation after rain
- You’re being required to raise your home by code or insurance
- You’re planning to build underneath or change your foundation type
Even if you’re still weighing your options, we’ll take a look and give you honest advice — even if the best move is to wait.
When you want the best, call Du-West. We’ve done this. We’ll tell you the truth and do it right the first time.
FAQ
Can every slab house be raised?
Most can. The biggest factor is the condition of the slab. If it’s too damaged, we may recommend repairs or partial rebuilds. But in general, if the structure is sound, we can lift it.
Will the house be damaged during the lift?
We take every precaution to avoid damage. Small drywall cracks or cosmetic shifts can happen, but they’re easy to repair. Structural damage is rare when the job’s done right.
Can I live in the house during the lift?
Usually not. The utilities will be disconnected, and the house will be off the ground for several days. We’ll walk you through a safe timeline.
How long does it take to raise a house on a slab?
Anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks depending on the size, condition, and scope of work. We build in time for weather and inspection delays.
Is it cheaper to raise or rebuild?
Raising is almost always cheaper — and faster — than rebuilding from scratch. You keep your home’s structure, layout, and materials while getting a stronger foundation.
Let’s Lift Your House — the Right Way
If you’re staring at water lines on your baseboards or cracks crawling across your tile, it’s time to take a serious look at your foundation. Raising your slab home can buy you decades of peace, safety, and solid footing. But only if it’s done right.
At Du-West Services, we’ve been doing this for over 40 years. We know the soil. We know the structures. And we’ve got the crew to get your house up and standing strong — from first inch to final bolt.
When you want the best, call Du-West. We’ll lift it. We’ll fix it. And we’ll make it last. Ready when you are.
